Creative nonfiction writings and ruminations of a Family Physician. Much of this will be medical musing, patient and doctor stories, but I reserve the right to wander. Please feel free to add your comments and experiences!

Monday, August 17, 2009

I did three ROTC physicals today. ROTC stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps. In return for financial assistance for their college expenses, students complete training sessions while in school, and fulfill a military commitment once they're out. They graduate as officers, bypassing the unlisted ranks.

My job was to make sure they didn't have any glaring physical problems or contagious diseases that would prevent them from doing the rigorous PT (Physical Training) program.

All three of these young people were vigorous, healthy and intelligent. Each had an upbeat attitude about their education and their future. They were polite and correct, answering my questions with "Yes Ma'am" and putting their best foot forward.

As I handed the finished paperwork to the last patient, he thanked me with a breezy smile. I looked at this young man, healthy and whole, and marveled that he and the others would voluntarily take this step. The first step on a path that could lead to unknown lands, to injuries of body and soul, even to death.

"Thank YOU for your future service," I responded. His face softened and this time his smile reached his eyes .

The Authors of "50 Ways" Interview on KCHF TV

50 Ways to Leave Your 40s TV interview with Phoenix' Pat McMahon

About Me

Having been a clinic doc for twenty years, I've reached a point where I want to enrich my life and expand my skill horizons. Hence my creative writing efforts. So far successes include first place in the 2005 SouthWest Writer's Essay contest, co-authorship of a published book called 50 Ways to Leave Your 40s, and a regular health column in the Daily Lobo Newspaper.